Google launching digital skills roadshow in the Highlands and Islands

Google and Highlands and Islands Enterprise are launching a new digital skills training programme – via its #hellodigital initiative – for businesses across the region.

The enterprise agency’s #hellodigital demonstration centre has partnered with Google to offer businesses and communities across the Highlands and Islands advice on the latest skills needed to grow in the digital economy.

Mentors from Google will travel to Scotland’s most northerly town, Lerwick in Shetland, as well as visiting Orkney, Moray, Highland, Argyll and Bute and the Outer Hebrides. They are bringing the latest technology on the road. Delegates can try out virtual reality, augmented reality and 360 cameras for themselves.

The tour kicks off with on 11 September in Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides and 12 September in Portree in Skye. The event is particularly aimed at business, social enterprises and community organisations.

“In the digital age, a basic understanding of how the online world works is useful and when it comes to business, it’s essential,” said Ronan Harris, Google UK & Ireland’s managing director.

“We are delighted to bring the Google Digital Garage to the far north of Scotland and ensure everyone has access to free digital skills workshops.

“We hope you’ll pop in and get the skills you need to become more confident online, grow your career or business, and maybe even launch the next big idea.”

April Conroy from #hellodigital at HIE added: “Some of our local businesses are already leading the way with really entrepreneurial applications of virtual reality.

“It can be used in so many ways; virtual access to whole buildings before they’re even built, putting the adventure into your attraction’s marketing and promotion, and mixing real life and the virtual world to tell the story of historic sites. It’s something everyone should try. The very latest tech has to be experienced to be believed.

“We’re delighted to be bringing digital training out on the road with #hellodigital. We hope local businesses and groups come along and find out how VR and the other technologies might work for them.”